A couple approaching retirement once compared the estimated management costs of two townhomes in the eastern Tucson area with their current single-family home. After comparing the estimates for roof repairs, air conditioning replacements, and HOA monthly fees, their first reaction was that the differences were not as significant as they had expected.

Tucson is also a region where summer cooling costs can be high. The average residential rate from TEP (Tucson Electric Power) for 2025 is expected to be around $140 per month, which is lower than $146 in 2024, but the summer rates (from May to September) for the basic plan are set at 13.04 cents per kilowatt-hour for the first 500 kilowatt-hours. Since single-family homes require cooling for a larger area than condos or townhomes, the difference in summer bills accumulates each month.

So, how much do prices differ by housing type? As of August 2025, the median sale price for single-family homes in Tucson is $337,000, while townhomes and condos are around $241,000. Compared to earlier in the year when single-family homes were in the $380,000 range and townhomes/condos were in the $270,000 range, there have been fluctuations over time, but the gap between the two types has consistently remained around $100,000.

What about HOA fees? Townhome or condo communities in Arizona, including Tucson, have significant variations in monthly fees depending on the level of landscaping and common area maintenance. Living in a single-family home can lead to large expenses like roof replacements or air conditioning repairs occurring unexpectedly, while residences with an HOA share a significant portion of these large expenses by paying a fixed monthly amount. Which option is more advantageous depends on the age of the current home and how many more years you plan to live there.

If you want to reduce property tax burdens, it's worth looking into the Senior Valuation Protection program. If you are over 65, have lived at the address for more than two years, and have a single income of $43,733 or less as of 2025, you can apply to the county assessor to freeze your home's assessed value for three years. However, keep in mind that only the assessed value is frozen, so if local tax rates increase, your actual payment may change.

If you are moving to Tucson from another state, it's important not to judge solely based on the previous state's standards. Many choose Arizona simply because property taxes are lower, but you also need to consider that summer cooling costs may be significantly higher than in your previous residence to accurately assess the difference in living expenses. Additionally, homeowners insurance premiums can vary widely depending on the county, insurance company, and fire risk areas, so it's wise to get actual quotes before finalizing a purchase agreement. If you are moving directly from Korea, the concept of an HOA may be unfamiliar, so it's advisable to carefully check what items are included in the monthly management fee before signing a contract.

Here's a summary by housing type:

• Single-family home - Offers ample privacy and space, but large expenses for roof, cooling systems, and yard maintenance can arise unexpectedly.
• Townhome - Lower purchase prices and cooling costs compared to single-family homes, but HOA fees are fixed monthly.
• Condo - Lowest initial purchase burden and easy maintenance, but must adhere to community regulations.
• Active adult (55+) community - Benefits from neighbors of the same age and amenities, but age restrictions for residency should be checked in advance.

Ultimately, whether a single-family home with unpredictable large expenses like roofs or cooling systems, or a townhome or condo with shared costs through a fixed monthly fee is more suitable for your actual living situation depends on your future living plans and the current condition of your home. The conclusion may also vary based on how many more years you plan to stay in your current home. This article is not investment or legal advice, and it is recommended to consult a real estate professional before making any contracts or tax reduction applications.